Canada’s renewable energy sector has entered a pivotal new phase – one defined not by rapid early growth, but by operational maturity. Our fleet is aging, our workforce is evolving and our market is expanding faster than at any point in the past decade.
In this moment, operators, asset managers and technical teams are facing a critical question: What does “working smarter and safer” look like for Canada’s maturing renewable energy industry?
That is the question at the heart of the 2026 Operators Summit.
A personal reflection on where we started – and where we are now
I first set foot on a renewables site back in 2006. I was part of a construction crew building roads for wind farms. I was a fresh-faced kid who had no idea what he was doing, but my then-girlfriend was VERY impressed that I was helping to save the world (the relationship didn’t last, but my devotion to renewables and energy storage is lifelong).
Twenty years later, those mid-2000s assets – and I – have gained a certain maturity. Many of those early sites are now approaching the end of their design life. Decisions about decommissioning, lifetime extensions and repowering loom large across the country. The challenges are more complex, the stakes higher and the need for skilled operators greater than ever (see the chart below).
This is why the 2026 Operators Summit embraces the theme “Coming of Age.” Our industry has evolved. Now, we must evolve with it.
Why this Summit matters now
According to CanREA’s Market Outlook 2025, Canada surpassed 20 GW of installed wind, solar and storage capacity in 2024, with these sources of renewable energy already supplying more than 10% of national electricity capacity. By 2035, this share is expected to more than double to at least 21%, firmly establishing renewables as a core pillar of Canada’s energy system.
Last year’s Operators Summit registration confirms who is doing the work behind this transition. Among attendees:
- 43.5% worked in wind energy
- 29.7% worked in solar energy
- 22.6% worked in energy storage
Their roles included operators, asset owners, service providers, equipment suppliers, engineers, developers, students and early-career professionals. In total, more than 300 technical experts gathered—making it the largest national event dedicated exclusively to renewable O&M.
The 2026 edition arrives earlier in the year – February 11–12, 2026 – giving operators a headstart on planning, skills development and networking.
Session highlights
Attendees can look forward to expert-led sessions such as:
Coming of age: The renewables industry today
A high-level opening panel featuring Barbara Ellard of Ontario’s IESO that will explore operational maturity, and how wind, solar and storage are important tools in the grid operator’s toolbox, while simultaneously supporting the journey toward reconciliation.
Technical workshop: Troubleshooting complex electrical systems with deductive reasoning
Canada Training Group will provide hands-on learning relevant to all renewable operators.
How much life is left in your machine?
This technical panel will do a deep dive on how engineers assess wear and tear on various wind turbine components.
Solar operations in adverse conditions
Research from the International Energy Agency will be presented along with a discussion about how solar operators deal with inclement weather.
Jumping on the artificial intelligence bandwagon
This panel will examine how AI is reshaping renewable operations, from potentially predicting failures to uncovering inefficiencies, while also mapping the practical steps needed to move toward an AI-ready future.
Agrivoltaics in Alberta (and elsewhere)
This panel will unpack new regulations that require Alberta solar operators to demonstrate compatibility with agricultural zones and will explore practical strategies for meeting these requirements.
New this year!
Hands-on demonstrations
We are replacing elevator pitches with interactive demonstrations on the exhibition floor, giving attendees the chance to see equipment and tools in action.
Lessons learned track
A fast-paced series of fireside-style sessions pairing one presenter with a moderator to share practical examples, best practices and even the occasional “what not to do.”
Poster session
An informal, interactive showcase where operators, technicians, engineers and service providers share practical, operations-focused case studies. Attendees can browse at their own pace and have one-on-one conversations.
Who should attend (and why)
Operators and technicians
This Summit gives front-line teams practical tools, proven troubleshooting methods and new perspectives on safety and performance.
Asset managers
You’ll gain clarity on end-of-life planning, repowering pathways and strategies to keep assets running longer and more efficiently.
Engineers and technical specialists
Expect detailed technical content, applied research discussions and component-level insights that support better decision-making.
Service providers and suppliers
With the country’s largest gathering of O&M professionals in one room, this is your best opportunity to meet prospective clients and partners.
Students and early-career professionals
If you’re looking to understand real-world operations and make industry connections, the Operators Summit provides a direct pathway in. Students also benefit from discounted registration, making it easier to access the training, insights and networking that can launch a career in renewable energy.
Exhibitors galore
On the exhibition floor, delegates will meet:
- O&M service providers
- Component and tooling manufacturers
- Safety and training organizations
- Data and monitoring technology providers
- Engineering, construction and consulting firms
The layout is designed to encourage side-by-side comparison, practical demonstrations and meaningful technical conversations.
Registration is now open!
What began as a handful of operators learning the ropes in a single room has grown into a national gathering of experienced professionals shaping the next chapter of Canada’s renewable operations sector.
As Canada’s renewable fleet comes of age, the Operators Summit remains the place where operators learn from one another, sharpen their skills and prepare for the work ahead.
All told, this show is not to be missed.
Register now to secure your spot at Canada’s largest conference dedicated to renewable energy and energy storage operations and maintenance. I’m really looking forward to connecting with everyone again this year.